Week 20 of Ordinary Time

Last Light

Tuesday, August 18, 2026

Opening

Lord of the harvest, bless the small seeds of prayer I plant today.

Hymn

Abide with me; fast falls the eventide; The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide. When other helpers fail and comforts flee, Help of the helpless, O abide with me. I need Thy presence every passing hour. What but Thy grace can foil the tempter's power? Who, like Thyself, my guide and stay can be? Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me. — Henry Francis Lyte (public domain)

Psalmody

Antiphon

Over my household and those I love, spread the shelter of your wings.

Psalm

He who dwells in the assistance of the Most High will abide in the protection of the God of heaven. He will say to the Lord, “You are my supporter and my refuge.” My God, I will hope in him. His truth will surround you with a shield. You will not be afraid: before the terror of the night, before the arrow flying in the day, before the business walking in darkness, nor of the invasion and the midday demon.

Psalm 90:1–2, 5–6 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)

Glory Be

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

Antiphon

Over my household and those I love, spread the shelter of your wings.

Reading

1 Peter 5:8–9a Be sober and vigilant. For your adversary, the devil, is like a roaring lion, traveling around and seeking those whom he might devour. Resist him by being strong in faith, being aware that the same passions afflict those who are your brothers in the world. — 1 Peter 5:8–9a · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)

Reflection

Lay down what you cannot solve tonight. Entrust those you love to God's care. Sleep as one who is held.

Intercession

For hearts that are tired, bring rest. For hearts that are restless, bring purpose. For hearts that are hard, bring compassion. For the world you love, kindle justice and peace. Lord, hear our prayer.

Closing prayer

Father, I place this hour in your hands. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Silence

If you can, rest in quiet for half a minute before you rise.

Scripture: Psalm 90:1–2, 5–6 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain); 1 Peter 5:8–9a · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)

An original Prayer on Fire offering for the hours of the day